Showcasing these extraordinary women and laced with the narrative of the unique relationship between Burns and Kloss, the campaign features strikingly intimate candid video vignettes and editorial photographs, as well as classically cool styling by Karla Welch. Extraordinary Women, Extraordinary Stories explores the meaningful relationship between the two women, bound by a shared desire for purposeful change. Each has been inspired to channel the success of their modeling careers to work toward positively impacting women’s lives through their respective initiatives: Kode with Klossy, empowering young women and girls to learn to code as well as become leaders in tech and, Every Mother Counts, providing support to mothers around the world with access to essential maternity care.

Through a rare photo essay and video shorts, Bird captures intimate anecdotes and life lessons shared between Kloss and Burns as they aspire to do more, place passion with purpose, and embody the extraordinary. “When someone is extraordinary,” says Karlie Kloss, “they are being genuine to their unique passions and chasing their dreams.” Christy Turlington Burns notes, “What any of us do on any daily basis is very ordinary, very routine. Extraordinary is really born from being your best possible self in any of those given moments.”

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The New Line Of Architecturally Feminine Blouses, Dresses And Jackets Is Available Now At 149 Macy’s Stores And On Macys.Com

Macy’s has announced the release of an exclusive, new collection by famed designer Yigal Azrouel. YYIGAL, an architecturally-influenced, limited-edition line, embodies the sophisticated and feminine spirit of the Yigal Azrouel brand through signature tops, blouses, faux-leather motorcycle jackets, intricate dresses and a statement jumpsuit. YYIGAL is available at 149 Macy’s stores and on macys.com today.

“YYigal represents the effortless style, cool confidence and modern sophistication that is at the core of my brand,” said Yigal Azrouel. “From the intricate lace detailing and architectural silhouettes, to the delicate draping that has become signature to my design; each piece was created to stand out and make the wearer feel empowered. This is my first collaboration with Macy’s, and they’ve been an incredible partner in helping bring my point-of-view to their customers.”

The dynamic line taps into the core aesthetic of Yigal Azrouel’s design DNA—as it combines delicate draping with expert construction, resulting in a collection that is fresh and modern, but also exudes the timelessness inherent in high style. Vivid prints are rendered in a refined color palette of black, white and blush, and lace embellishments, inserts and bodices are new and edgy interpretations of the traditionally hyper-romantic and feminine fabric. The pieces are reflective of Azrouel’s New York roots and global vision, and thoroughly embody today’s woman and her life. The clothing is bold and powerful, yet sophisticated and continental, and clean silhouettes make for easy wearing, day-to-night dressing. The effortlessly cool collection projects confidence, style and an ultra-chic urbane flare.

“Yigal Azrouel is an iconic New York designer known for his impeccable attention to detail and designs that make women look and feel amazing,” said Cassandra Jones, senior vice president of Macy’s Fashion. “He is a master at drawing inspiration from his various interests in travel, architecture, and of course, New York City, and creating breathtaking clothing that speaks to the modern woman. We’re bringing this seasoned, fashion-first practical approach to every day dressing to the Macy’s customer in a new way through this collection, and she’s going to love it.”

The exclusive, limited-edition collection retails between $69 and $199, and is available in 149 Macy’s stores and on macys.com.

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Annual Retail Study Also Uncovers Top Shoe Brands, And Trends In Consumer Confidence, Wearables And E-Commerce

Nordstrom’s fan base is as fervent as ever. For the fifth time in a row, Nordstrom ranked as the nation’s favorite fashion retailer in an annual retail industry study conducted byMarket Force Information (Market Force). Market Force polled over 10,000 consumers for the study, which ranks top fashion retailers, reveals retail technology trends and looks at spending plans and habits.

Market Force Information (Market Force) logo

The survey was conducted online in December 2016 across the United States. There was an overall pool of 10,714 respondents covering all four U.S. Census regions. Within the survey pool, 7,241 reported shopping for fashion at a favorite retailer within the past 90 days, and 5,494 reported shopping for shoes within the past six months. There was a broad spectrum of income levels, with 54% indicating incomes of over $50,000 a year. Respondents’ ages ranged from 18 to over 65. Approximately 75% were women and 25% were men. For the rankings, Market Force asked participants to rate their customer satisfaction with their most recent fashion retailer experience, and their likelihood to refer the brand to others. The results were averaged to attain a Composite Loyalty Score. Only retailers with at least 100 locations were included.

Dillard’s and T.J. Maxx Climb Higher in Rankings

Nordstrom, which has built a reputation for incomparable customer service, ranked first among the retailers studied with a score of 64%, up 6% from 2016. Dillard’s made even larger strides from last year, gaining 16% percentage points to rank second with 54%, and was closely trailed by off-price retailer T.J. Maxx, which earned a 53% score. Ann Taylor and Nordstrom Rack landed in the top of the rankings, after not making the cut last year, tying with Kohl’s for fourth place. [See Graph 1].

Graph 1 – 2017 Fashion Retailer Rankings

Nordstrom Top for Value, Dillard’s for Creating Full Looks

In the attributes that set one retailer apart from the others, Nordstrom, Ann Taylor and Dillard’s all performed exceedingly well. Overall-winner Nordstrom ranked first for value, atmosphere, and ease of finding items, while Dillard’s took the No. 1 spots for creating a look and finding correct sizes. Ann Taylor landed in the top three in all of these categories. T.J. Maxx and Ross were called out for merchandise selection, and American Eagle has the fastest checkout speeds. [See Graphs 2 and 3].

Graph 2 – Rankings by Attributes

Graph 3 – Rankings by Attributes

Sizing up Sales Support

Despite the fact that sales assistance is shown to boost satisfaction and sales, less than half (42%) of consumers report being helped by an associate during their last shopping trip. Lane Bryant’s and Nordstrom’s associates assisted customers most often, while Target and T.J. Maxx shoppers received the least help. [See Graph 4].

“Sales associates are the front-line representatives for retailers, and how they engage with customers can make or break the shopping experience and impact sales,” said Cheryl Flink, chief strategy officer for Market Force Information. “The research shows that 90% of customers who were assisted by a sales associate bought something. When customers were not assisted, only 82% made a purchase. That 8% difference in conversion rate is a key reason why fashion retailers need to invest in their sales staff.”Continue reading →

LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the world’s leading luxury products group, recorded revenue of €37.6 billion in 2016, an increase of 5% over the previous year. Organic revenue growth was 6%.

In the fourth quarter, revenue increased by 9% compared to the same period of 2015. Organic growth was 8%. The American market remains on a good track as does Europe. Asia, excluding Japan, continued its good momentum.

Profit from recurring operations reached €7 billion in 2016, an increase of 6%, to which all business groups, apart from selective distribution, contributed. This result compares to 2015 which was itself a year of growth. Operating margin reached 18.7%. Group share of net profit was €3 981 million, representing growth of 11%.

Bernard Arnault, Chairman and CEO of LVMH, said: “LVMH achieved an excellent performance in 2016 within a context of geopolitical and economic instability. Continued innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and the quest for excellence: all Maisons continue to assert these core values while maintaining rigorous execution of their strategies on the ground. In an environment which remains uncertain, we can count on the appeal of our brands and the agility of our teams to strengthen, once again in 2017, our leadership in the universe of high quality products.”

Key highlights from 2016 include:

Record revenue and profit from recurring operations

Growth in the United States, Europe and Asia

Good performance of Wines & Spirits in all regions

The success of both iconic and new products at Louis Vuitton, where profitability remains at an exceptional level

Progress at Fendi

The sale of Donna Karan and the acquisition of Rimowa, a leader in luggage of excellence

Growth at Sephora which strengthened its position in all its markets and in digital

Free cash flow of €3 974 million, an increase of 8%

Gearing of 12% at end of December 2016

WINES & SPIRITS: GOOD YEAR WITH PROGRESS IN THE UNITED STATES AND REBOUND IN SHIPMENTS TO CHINA

The Wines & Spirits Business Group recorded an increase in organic revenue of 7 %. On a reported basis, revenue growth was 5 %. Profit from recurring operations increased by 10 %. With volumes up 3%, solid growth continues for champagne and prestige cuvees performed particularly well. Hennessy cognac enjoyed an excellent year with 10% volume growth. The American market is growing well and China saw better momentum after a tough 2015 due to destocking by distributors. Other spirits, Glenmorangie and Belvedere, continued their growth.

The Fashion & Leather Goods Business Group recorded organic revenue growth of 4% in 2016. On a reported basis, revenue growth was 3 %. Profit from recurring operations increased by 10%. Louis Vuitton had a good year driven by the level of creativity across all its businesses. The continued success of its iconic product range and the strong demand for recent creations such as the new luggage designed by Marc Newson and the Louis Vuitton fragrances, all contributed to this growth. Fendi recorded robust growth crossing the symbolic revenue threshold of 1 billion euros during the year. Loro Piana continued to expand its distribution network and opened a flagship store in Paris. Céline, Loewe and Kenzo all continued to grow. Marc Jacobs continued to work on changes to its collection. Donna Karan was sold in December to the American G-III group. Rimowa, world leader in luggage of excellence, joined the LVMH group.

The Perfumes & Cosmetics Business Group recorded organic revenue growth of 8%. On a reported basis, revenue growth was 6%. Profit from recurring operations increased by 5%. The inauguration of the new atelier for the creation of fragrances, Les Fontaines Parfumées, at Grasse was a highlight of the year. Parfums Christian Dior grew market share in all regions, driven by the worldwide success of Sauvage and the vitality of its iconic perfumes J’adore and Miss Dior. The progress of makeup also contributed to the Maison’s excellent performance. Guerlain benefitted from the successful launch of its new makeup collection inspired by its fragrance La Petite Robe Noire. Benefit experienced strong growth driven by the success of its new collection for eyebrows. Make Up For Ever, Fresh and Kat Von D performed well.

LVMH is present in the Perfumes and Cosmetics sector with Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, Parfums Givenchy, Kenzo Parfums, Perfumes Loewe as well as other promising cosmetic companies (BeneFit Cosmetics, Make Up For Ever, Acqua di Parma and Fresh).

WATCHES & JEWELRY: MARKET SHARE GAINS FOR BVLGARI AND TAG HEUER

The Watches & Jewelry Business Group recorded organic revenue growth of 5%. On a reported basis, revenue growth was 5%. Profit from recurring operations increased by 6%. Bvlgari continued to gain market share with enhancements to its Serpenti, Diva and B.zero1 lines. Growth continued in China, Korea and in the Middle East. TAG Heuer grew despite a difficult market for watches, gained market share and benefitted from the success of its new collections and its connected watch. Hublot accelerated its development in Asia and recorded the best year in its history. Chaumet continued to move its product lines upmarket and inaugurated a new boutique concept in Hong Kong.

SELECTIVE RETAILING: GOOD PERFORMANCE AT SEPHORA, DFS IMPACTED BY A DIFFICULT TOURISM CONTEXT IN ASIA

The Selective Retailing Business Group recorded organic revenue growth of 8%. On a reported basis, revenue growth was 7%. Profit from recurring operations declined by 2%. Sephora gained market share across all regions and once again recorded double-digit growth in both revenue and profits. More than a hundred stores were opened in 2016 including notably a flagship store in the World Trade Center in New York and major renovations in Boston and Singapore. Its online offer accelerated with the launch in six new countries. DFS continued to face a difficult environment, notably in Hong Kong. The expansion into new destinations continued. The opening of the T Galleria in Angkor in Cambodia and one in Venice, Italy were the highlights of the year.

LVMH is also active in selective retailing as well as in other activities through DFS, Sephora, Le Bon Marché, La Samaritaine, Royal Van Lent and Cheval Blanc hotels.

Key figures:

Euro millions

2015

2016

% change

Revenue

35 664

37 600

+ 5 %

Profit from recurring operations

6 605

7 026

+ 6 %

Group share of net profit

3 573

3 981

+ 11 %

Free cash flow*

3 679

3 974

+ 8 %

Net financial debt

4 235

3 265

– 23 %

Total equity

25 799

27 903

+ 8 %

* Before available for sale financial assets and investments, transactions relating to equity and financing activitiesContinue reading →

H&M Hennes & Mauritz is pleased to announce the debut of their holiday short film “Come Together“, directed by Wes Anderson starring Adrien Brody. The story takes place on a train traveling through a snowy landscape where Brody plays the conductor. Watch the “Come Together” Holiday Film here or visit hm.com.

“The winter train ride, under Wes Anderson’s direction, is the perfect setting for H&M’s holiday collection full of relaxed, wearable elegance. It’s about mixing the informal with a sense of occasion, capturing the holiday mood for both dressing up and getting cozy with loved ones.” says Pernilla Wohlfahrt, H&M’s Head of Design and Creative Director.

Academy-Award winning actor Adrian Brody and the cast in still from the H&M’s 2016 Holiday Film, “Come Together” directed by Wes Anderson.

In the film, lone passengers are traveling to join their loved ones for the holidays, but winter weather conspires to way-lay them.

“This story may resonate more than ever at a time in the world where we could all do with giving a stranger a hug.” says actor Adrien Brody.

Sarah Jessica Parker will debut her first standalone boutique at theMGM National Harborwith the resort’s opening on December 8, 2016. SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker will feature the designer’s chic collection of shoes, handbags, accessories and the SJP LBD little black dress line.The boutique will be open daily from 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. beginning December 9 and can be reached at 301-971-6094.

Sarah Jessica Parker to Debut First Standalone SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Boutique at MGM National Harbor. (PRNewsFoto/MGM National Harbor)

An array of colorful shoes, handbags and accessories synonymous with the brand await at SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker. Also available will be the American-made SJP LBD, the brand’s latest collection of little black dresses. Accessories and handbags range from $30 to $695, shoes start at $240 and the SJP LBD collection will premiere at $395.

SJP was founded in February 2014 by Sarah Jessica Parker and partner George Malkemus III. The accessories collection stems from Sarah Jessica’s love for the single sole and vivid memories of New York City fashion in the latter part of the 70s. The collection showcases the brand’s theme of colors acting as neutrals and encourages women to take risks and break away from fashion rules they imagine.

“Opening a standalone store has long been a dream we have been working towards and we feel truly privileged to be doing so with the expertise, guidance and support of our brilliant partners at MGM Resorts,” said Parker. “It’s been very exciting to have been involved in all steps of the process, from on-site construction visits to the actual layout and design of our boutique. I’m honored to be included in this massive undertaking and I’m very much looking forward to celebrating in December. Because perhaps then I will believe it’s real.“

Bill Boasberg, general manager of MGM National Harbor, said “When curating our retail collection, we first and foremost wanted to align ourselves with a luxury brand that represents style, elegance and, most of all, fun. We know this boutique will appeal to a wide variety of women and we’re looking forward to inviting them in to discover their new favorite shoe, handbag or little black dress.”

The newest addition to the MGM Resorts International portfolio, MGM National Harbor‘s unrivaled setting offers stunning panoramic views of the eastern shore of the Potomac River in Maryland. The $1.4 billion resort sits a short distance from Washington, D.C. to the north and historic sites, including George Washington‘s Mount Vernon estate across the river in Virginia.

In addition to a shopping spree, MGM National Harbor guests are invited to enjoy the resort’s stunning amenities whether just for the day or as a weekend getaway. From restaurants created by the nation’s most celebrated chefs to a luxury suite collection and destination spa, the resort has a variety of offerings to entice even the most discerning of guests. Resort amenities include:

308 rooms, including 74 premier suites

Restaurants from world-renowned chefs Marcus Samuelsson, José Andrés and the Voltaggio Brothers, in addition to many other exciting culinary concepts

The 24-story resort will feature premier amenities and experiences for locals as well as visitors from around the world including a dynamic casino with over 125,000 square feet of space that includes slots, table games and poker; a world-class spa and salon; an entertainment theater with flexible seating for up to 3,000; high-end branded retail; 50,000 square feet of meeting space; and restaurants from renowned local, national and international chefs. MGM National Harbor is scheduled to open December 8, 2016.

Walmartissued the following statement on how the company delivered on its Black Fridayplans for customers. The retailer also unveiled top products purchased on Black Friday and how customers shopped that day in stores and online.

“This Black Friday, we promised customers great deals, more availability of those items, an integrated offering with Walmart.com and the simple shopping experience our customers have come to expect from Walmart. I am proud to say that we’ve delivered on all fronts,” said Steve Bratspies, Chief Merchandising Officer, Walmart U.S. “Our customers were particularly excited about the new technologies we offered this year. In addition to picking up Black Friday favorites like televisions and toys, they flocked to our stores for drones, virtual reality products and hoverboards.”

Happy Walmart customer reacts to receiving a Hatchimal, one of the season’s hottest toys. (Photo: Business Wire)

Thanksgiving and Black Friday Fun Facts and Stats:

The week kicked off with customers visiting stores in the days leading up to Thanksgiving to grocery shop. This Thanksgiving, Walmart sold 150 million pounds of turkey and ham. Throughout the month of November, the retailer also sold more than six pies per second with the most popular pies being pumpkin and the Patti LaBelle Sweet Potato Pie.

Black Friday is about offering great deals in stores and online. At midnight ET on Thanksgiving Day, customers started shopping on Walmart.comand the Walmart app. Thanksgiving Day was once again one of the top online shopping days of the year.

Then, at 6 p.m. the retailer kicked off the company’s Black Friday event in stores across the country. Millions of customers went home with the items they wanted. Top sellers included televisions, cookware, video games and systems, drones, toys and pajamas for the whole family.

More than 70 percent of traffic to Walmart.com during the retailer’s Black Friday event was driven by mobile.

(Image courtesy of Walmart)

(Image courtesy of Walmart)

(Image courtesy of Walmart)

It is not over. Walmart’s Cyber Week began at 12:01 a.m. ET on Friday, Nov. 25, and will continue with thousands of online specials every day throughout the week.

“We will continue to focus on offering great prices on great products across the whole store and on Walmart.com for the rest of the holiday season,” Bratspies added.